We emerged from the deep blue sea speechless over the gorgeous canyons and gardens of coral and soft sponges, seemingly lasting to infinity.

The location: Punta Francés, part of a national marine park just off the southern coast of Cuba’s Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth).

Embarking on a 10-day reconnaissance exploring the southern coast of Cuba, we were reviewing the state of its seas for future educational expeditions focused on sustainability, especially with respect to marine and coastal ecosystems. This spot, like many we were yet to discover, was a reflection of Cuba’s attempt at environmental protection coupled with low development and economic stagnation — the status quo for decades during Fidel Castro’s rule and a partial result of the United States’ commercial and financial embargo.